In a highly anticipated matchup, the New York Rangers will face off against the Florida Panthers tonight at Madison Square Garden for Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Final. Both teams, division winners in the regular season, are expected to start the series with a defensive mindset, resulting in a low-scoring affair.

According to top NHL picks and Panthers vs. Rangers predictions, this series opener is likely to be a tightly contested game. The Rangers will heavily rely on their No. 1 goalie, Igor Shesterkin, to stifle the Panthers' offensive efforts. Meanwhile, Florida could struggle to create high-quality scoring chances.

Early in Game 1, it is expected that both teams will adopt a conservative approach and roll out all four lines. The Panthers will strive to dominate possession, employing a heavy playing style. On the other hand, the Rangers aim to weather an early storm, similar to their strategy against the Carolina Hurricanes in the previous round.

One significant difference to watch out for is the shot volume and shot quality of both teams during 5-on-5 play. In the second round, the Panthers attempted an impressive 69.24 shots per 60 minutes but could convert only 8.93 into high-danger scoring chances and 2.35 expected goals. Meanwhile, the Rangers attempted 58.35 shots, generating 9.89 high-danger scoring chances and 2.62 expected goals.

Another noticeable gap between the teams is their physicality on the ice. Florida recorded an average of 47.15 hits per 60 minutes compared to New York's 30.04 hits. The Panthers rely on a fast and heavy playing style, trying to create more opportunities to put pucks on net, while the Rangers have often been under pressure, relying on the exceptional skills of goalie Igor Shesterkin.

Speaking of goaltending, both teams boast talented netminders. Shesterkin has been outstanding for the Rangers, boasting a remarkable save percentage of .923 during the postseason. Florida's No. 1 goalie, Sergei Bobrovsky, has also been in top form, allowing just eight goals with a .921 SV% in the final five games against the Boston Bruins. The stellar performances of both goalies have been crucial, as both teams have allowed remarkably low goals per 60 minutes at 5-on-5 play - 2.22 for the Rangers and 2.02 for the Panthers.

Analyzing the matchup, the Rangers can afford to lose the possession battle if the Panthers struggle to generate consistent high-quality chances. Although Florida may come out strong at the start of the game, the Rangers will be content watching Shesterkin make routine saves throughout the night. With their depth upfront and on the blue line, New York has the ability to contain the Panthers, particularly in the early stages of the game.

As the Eastern Conference Final kicks off, hockey fans can expect an intense battle with a focus on defense. With two superb goalies and solid defensive strategies, both teams will be vying for the upper hand in this series opener.